Hi,
We all are aware that many local language websites are still
continuing the use of non-standard encoding. In a related
discussion, Sankarshan has made an interesting suggestion
of compiling a set of arguments favoring the use of Unicode.
The arguments should be aimed at the people who run websites
with local language contents (mainly in Indian sub-continent)
using dynamic font technology instead of standard Unicode.
Following Sankarshan's suggestion, I am putting forward
an initial set of arguments (from my own perspective).
Please add your arguments and/or modify/change/delete the
the arguments below. We are planning to put up the final
version in Ankur website. These arguments can be used
as handy reference to pursue people for switching to
Unicode.
==========================================
Why Should You Switch to Unicode?
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
By switching to Unicode you can...
(*) Instantly expand your current user base
------------------------------------------------
Unicode is now supported at a native level in all
major operating systems including Windows Vista, XP, Linux,
Mac, BSD. One the other hand, dynamics font technology are
supported only in a subset of OSs. Thus, switching to
Unicode not only allows you to retain your current users
but also allows you to expand your user base immediately.
(*) Make your contents search-able in search engine like Google
-----------------------------------------------------------
It is extremely likely that a major fraction of your users
reach your website via results of search engine. Switching
to Unicode makes your local language contents search-able
in search engine like Google. This will lead additional
web-traffic to your website. Consequently, it could lead
to additional search-engine generated revenue for you.
The number of Internet users in Indian subcontinent is
going to increase in coming future. A significant portion
of new Internet users will be coming from the interior
part of the countries. Most of these users will be more
comfortable in searching Internet using keywords
in their own language.
(*) Save future hassles of converting your legacy contents
-----------------------------------------------------
By continuing the use of non-standard encoding, you will
be piling up your archive with non-standard contents which
would require a major effort in your part to convert them
into standard encoding. You can save future hassles of
conversion by switching to Unicode sooner than later.
==============================================
Cheers
Golam
--
http://gravity.psu.edu/~hossain/
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